Is Fatigue a Significant Problem?

(Posted on 11/21/12 at 10:19 am)

There is always discussion of rookies and other young players needing to adjust to aspects of the NBA game. Conditioning is often noted as colleges only play two games a week and the games are shorter.

Now, we have seen the Hornets struggle during significant stretches of games. Is this fatigue? Due to multiple injuries keeping important players out, our young guys are being thrown into the fire and are playing more than they normally would. This goes for the entire roster, really. Now, this may help their future development, but they are certainly adjusting. It just seems that they don't always "play through it."

With the ankle injuries, it would seem leg fatigue is definitely a factor.

re: Is Fatigue a Significant Problem? (Posted on 11/21/12 at 10:36 am to droman225)

quote:I'm pretty sure we have played less games than anybody else so far...

So, no, fatigue shouldn't be a problem.

Is there a "professionalism" to playing through fatigue, though? I know that we have played less games, but our rookies are playing a lot of minutes. They are also carrying a much heavier burden while playing.

re: Is Fatigue a Significant Problem? (Posted on 11/21/12 at 5:27 pm to Jester)

I think it's a fair point. Lots of young guys either adjusting to the league or adjusting to expanded roles. Mental and physical fatigue which we didn't see last year because the core of the team was veteran.

While letting guys develop, the team will maybe take a step back (though hard to do from last year). But hopefully it allows the team to make tremendous improvement over the next 3-5 years. Starting on the ground floor now, but the potential ceiling is worth it.

re: Is Fatigue a Significant Problem? (Posted on 11/21/12 at 5:43 pm to corndeaux)

Also, knowing proper technique makes things come easier. Being in the right position leads to less chasing and less energy spent. Proper footwork leads to a stronger base and less core energy spent holding your space. They are not used to playing equals. You can get away with lazy technique in college; not against NBA talent, though.